Sometimes, it's easy to forget that while Conor McGregor has become the worldwide celebrity, he is, in actual fact, a UFC fighter.The Irishman is the reigning UFC lightweight champion, but it has been over a year since he won that belt from Eddie Alvarez at UFC 205.McGregor became the first-ever UFC dual-weight champion that night before he was forced to relinquish the UFC flyweight title the next day.However, despite holding two titles in the organisation, he has never defended even one.The Notorious One took a break from the octagon this year in order to pursue a huge payday against Floyd Mayweather in his first-ever boxing match.Although McGregor lost, he scored his best payday with the fight becoming the most lucrative bout in history.Many had thought the 29-year-old would return to the UFC for their final show of the year on December 30 and face interim lightweight champion, Tony Ferguson.However, McGregor was involved in an incident with a referee while supporting a close friend at a Bellator event a couple of weeks ago and, as punishment, the UFC have told Bellator they'll keep McGregor off that card.Whether you believe that or not, McGregor's coach says he expects the fighter to return in April of next year.MMA journalist Farah Hannoun said she spoke with John Kavanagh on his recent trip to Bahrain where the Irish trainer has been in with his fighter Frans Mlambo, for the Brave CF 9 card.

Hannoun said: “Just saw John Kavanagh who was very surprised by the Woodley vs Diaz rumours. Says Conor probably won't return until April or mid next year.

“Still have to go through negotiations with the UFC to place deal for next fight.”

Nate Diaz seems a natural option for McGregor once he finally defends his title as they have a lucrative trilogy to complete, but UFC welterweight champion Tyron Woodley has been calling out Diaz for the December 30 show that McGregor was originally rumoured for.

If McGregor want to keep his credibility, he has no choice but to defend his title in his comeback fight, whether that's April or not.